Can veterans get SSDI if they don’t have a work history?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 12/09/2025
Can veterans get SSDI if they don’t have a work history? Many veterans wonder if they can qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) without a traditional work record. Veterans with limited or no recent civilian work history may still be eligible under specific conditions. Though SSDI typically requires work credits earned through Social Security taxes, there are alternative ways veterans can meet the criteria. The key lies in combining military service, disability status, and other qualifying factors to satisfy the SSA’s requirements.
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Military Work Credits May Count
Veterans may receive work credits for military service, which can help meet SSA eligibility requirements.
- Active duty service typically earns Social Security credits needed for SSDI.
- Military pay generally contributes to your work history for SSA evaluation.
- Discharge status and service period affect earned credits.
Supplementing with Civilian Work
If military credits are insufficient, combining with any civilian employment may help.
- Even short-term or part-time jobs could add valuable Social Security credits.
- SSA counts recent jobs more heavily in determining eligibility.
- Vocational rehabilitation can assist veterans back into workforce participation.
Consider Veterans Benefits and SSA Coordination
Veterans should explore how their VA disability benefits relate to SSDI eligibility.
- VA disability ratings can support SSDI claims but don't replace work credits.
- Some veterans paired with VA benefits may meet medical criteria for SSDI.
- Coordination between agencies improves the claim process.
Alternate SSDI Qualification Paths
Some veterans qualify by meeting special conditions under SSA rules.
- In rare cases, disability onset during service can help bypass strict work history rules.
- SSDI may allow for “compassionate allowance” consideration with strong medical evidence.
- Understanding exceptions and allowances is essential for eligibility.
Seek Professional SSDI Guidance
Veterans unfamiliar with SSDI rules should consult experts.
- Complex eligibility standards require specialized knowledge.
- Legal advice can help maximize approval chances despite limited work history.
- Documentation and application assistance are key to success.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we specialize in helping veterans understand their SSDI eligibility even with limited or no traditional work history.
- We evaluate your military service and work credits to determine if you qualify under SSA guidelines.
- Our team helps gather strong medical evidence and documentation relevant to your veteran disability claim.
- We communicate directly with the SSA and assist throughout the application or appeal processes.
- With extensive knowledge of veteran benefits and SSDI rules, we provide personalized guidance to improve your chances of approval.
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you’re a veteran unsure about qualifying for SSDI without a work history, contact Hogan Smith today for a free consultation. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping veterans navigate the complexities of SSDI eligibility, gathering essential evidence, and securing the benefits you deserve.
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